Youth2Work Program

In reply to the Hon. F. PANGALLO (2 August 2018).

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer): I have been advised:

The Marshall Liberal government is implementing strong reforms to South Australia's training system to address the unacceptable decline in apprentice and trainee numbers in South Australia over the last five years. Under the previous Labor government training commencements fell by 16,900 (66%) to 8,765 from 2012-2017.

The state and federal governments are making a significant investment of $203 million to create an additional 20,800 apprenticeships and traineeships over the next four years. Through our strengthened relationship with the commonwealth, we have successfully secured $103 million through the Skilling Australians Fund. This funding reinforces the state government's $100 million commitment.

Fundamentally, the state government is implementing an industry led training system in South Australia to ensure training is delivered in response to the needs of industry and small business, and importantly, is aligned with real job outcomes.

We are also removing the duplication of programs to ensure taxpayer funds are better targeted. The commonwealth government's Youth Jobs PaTH and Transitions to Work programs will assist young unemployed people into employment.

The Department for Industry and Skills is working with industry to deliver training in line with industry requirements through our Skilling South Australia Strategy.